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*One of those players is linebacker E.J. Savannah. Coach Tyrone Willingham didn't clarify his status, except that he is out now due to injury, academics and some other unannounced issue. Willingham said his absence "could be forever." When asked if that would be a "huge blow" he replied "To some degree, yes." As camp begins, Josh Gage, Donald Butler and Mason Foster are the starters.

* QB Jake Locker, who completed less than 50 percent of his passes last season, is aiming for 65 percent this season. Offensive coordinator Tim Lappano said that is a realistic mark, but says that he has also reminded Locker that quarterbacks are judged not by passing percentages but by wins and losses.

*Center Juan Garcia's injured foot has progressed well, but its ability to withstand the pounding endured by a college football lineman is "a great concern." Matt Sedillo and guard/center Ryan Tolar will start camp competing for the No. 1 job.

*Receiver Chancellor Young returns with one season of eligibility remaining. For now, he is being seen as a potential key contributor on special teams. Whether he makes his mark as a receiver seems less certain.

*Asked if he feels his team has "more bullets in the gun" this season, Willingham replied, "Getting close."

*Safety Jason Wells and LB Butler both feel better physically than last season. Butler says he's 100 percent. Wells sounded more like he might still be a few percentage points away.